North Carolina Wedding Ideas and Inspiration

Gorgeous Garden Wedding Dripping In Greenery

Garden party lovers will love this sweet celebration done in pink and green. Alex Austin Events & Design planned a day that dazzles, complete with a vintage beverage cart, twinkle lights, and three wedding cakes! Floral design by Elizabeth Earnest Florals was the exclamation point on the day, and Jillian Knight captured every magical moment in elegant imagery that is sure to stand the test of time. Visit the full gallery for all the dreamy details.

From Alex Austin Events & Design… Samantha and Nick’s love story began in an unusual place. A place where they dressed in workout clothes, our hair untidy and body drenched in sweat – CrossFit. Nick remembers Samantha always arriving at the gym with a huge smile and simply beaming like a ray of sunshine, sometimes cheering Nick on while he would struggle to finish the session. After their workout, they would sometimes have a brief encounter before both would shuffle out the door. These moments would generally consist of her saying “hello,” asking how each other’s day was and chats about the workout, but that was really it. Fast-forward a few weeks… where they were out at a restaurant in downtown Raleigh with some friends watching the 2019 Super Bowl, when Nick said he saw that same beautiful girl out with her friends. It was one of those fateful moments where they looked at each other at the same time, made eye contact and, again, Nick said he saw that beautiful smile I had seen so many times at the gym. Samantha was quick to walk over to Nick’s table and they began chatting. That evening, time flew by. They talked about life, careers, future aspirations, religious beliefs, and much more. As the night concluded, we left the bar knowing that we had found our soul mate. Samantha is originally from Pinehurst and knew she always wanted to get married in her hometown. The Country Club of North Carolina just felt the quintessential Pinehurst destination, and the perfect spot for their wedding. The wedding was southern hospitality at its finest! We bring you the ultimate pink and green garden party in the Pines! For the ceremony we transformed an open field into an intimate and spiritual setting where this couple said “I Do”. Then off to the cocktail style reception where there were specialty cocktails (named after the couples beloved dogs) served from a vintage beverage cart, a live action artist, band, 3 cakes and all the food you could eat. The clear top tent overlooking the clubs lake was adorned with twinkle light, lanterns and dripping in greenery; it was truly spectacular. The luxe farm tables, metallic linens, velvet lounges and dusty pink and cream flowers; was the garden party the bride and groom had always wanted!

From the couple… To be honest, Samantha and I truly believe everything about that day was incredible, intimate and super special. However, if we had to choose one part; we both agree the wedding ceremony was our favorite part of the wedding day. We cannot begin to explain the lasting impact that this 25-30 minutes had on our lives. After Samantha and I walked down the aisle, we looked into the crowd and we immediately could sense the love and joy in the air. We were at this perfect ceremony, surrounded by all our friends, family and loved ones, it was a time where all the people we love were in one place celebrating the beginning of our marriage. Alex and team truly went all out, she listened to our ideas and visions, ran with it, and created something truly astonishing. The attention to detail was impeccable and it was personalized to us a couple which will be something we will always remember! We could not imagine a better day.

Advice we would give to future couples during the wedding process. Our advice to future newlyweds would be to enjoy each and every moment of it! Time truly does fly, don’t take it for granted. The entire process from start to finish is a great time, from choosing a venue to selecting your dress – enjoy the process and take it all in. Another thing that is important is to not be afraid of adding personal touches to your wedding. That day needs to be special and is a representation of each of you and your relationship as a whole. You will cherish it.

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The Sweetest Vow Renewal Inspiration of All Time at Airlie Gardens

Vow renewals are always one of our favorite moments to see grace our submissions, they serve as the most beautiful reminder of how your love story all started, and how it’s grown so much over the years. Today’s romantic vow renewal planned by Lake and Lavender features the most adorable family of 4, shades of pink, soft greens and yellows, delicate blooms by Mother of Wild Flower House, and golden hour shining through the spanish moss – it just doesn’t get any sweeter than this! See all the vow renewal inspo you’ll need at the full gallery, captured by Emily March Photography!

Inspired by the romance of Spanish moss and a Needle and Thread dress from BHLDN, this vow renewal editorial designed by Lake and Lavender and Emily March Photography showcases a real-life couple as their love has grown and highlights the magic of embracing the location of your special day. Wedding planning couples and married couples alike are invited to take inspiration from this modern classic shoot in a dreamy outdoor setting.

Details:
I planned and designed this vow renewal editorial in collaboration with Emily Payne of Emily March Photography. We hope this editorial inspires married couples to renew their vows for another beautiful and unforgettable day in their lives while also inspiring wedding planning couples for their wedding day and beyond.

With a growing love at the heart of this editorial, romance took centerstage as the underlying theme of the day. It was through this romantic lens that we were particularly inspired by the Spanish moss of Airlie Gardens and a Needle and Thread dress from BHLDN. The Florentina Ruffle Dress brought the romance with colors, details, ruffles, and movement. A colorful floral dress is a current trend for today’s bride and a perfect choice for a vow renewal. With their delicate embroidery, the romantic Claudia heels from Bella Belle Shoes paired with the dress shined as brightly as the setting sun. We wove shades of pink, soft greens and yellows, champagne and gold throughout the design to highlight our dreamy setting and remarkable dress.

The Norris family told our story. Their love was radiant and their children were a delight. Their stunning family portraits are now treasured keepsakes that mark this special moment in time. We played into the couple’s refined modern style with classic elements reminiscent of their wedding day. The story of our couple told through the stationery by Longest Time Design was as inviting and romantic as everything else with the deckled edges, soft floral details, and classically modern fonts in gold foil. Other details, like black and white photographs and a Bible, showcase the couple’s roots and the many seasons their marriage has seen over the last decade.

Incorporating classic roses with other delicate and dancing blooms in the modern and whimsical style of Mother of Wild Flower House told the color story masterfully and further carried the feel of the day. Crêpe myrtles for the ceremony provided a unique moment reminiscent of the season. And repurposing the ceremony flowers elevated the lounge and added an unexpected touch.

Specialty rentals from Martha My Dear Rentals helped communicate many of the modern classic designs. And we love how their steeple arch framed the couple as the Spanish moss did. A patterned linen carefully chosen from Nuage Designs complemented the dress and echoed the sun setting against the Spanish moss. And the linen for the cake display highlighted the cakes and the surrounding Spanish moss, too. Plates from Party Suppliers mimicked the movement of the ruffles in the dress. Tying two tones of ribbon around the napkins added texture and layers and was another way to connect the dress to the tabletop design.

In the same way the setting sun is painterly as it sets behind the Spanish moss, the painterly cakes by Sugar Euphoria stood alone and reflected the flowers from the dress in a striking way. A toast to the happy couple with gold-rimmed coupes from Anthropologie at sunset was the perfect ending to this unforgettable day!

A Colorful Summer Wedding in The North Carolina Mountains with The Couples Golden Retriever as the “Dog of Honor”

This pretty pop-of-color wedding is sure to make you smile. Filled with a bright color palette of blooms by Spring Vine, sweet sips, and the couple’s adorable dog- Wren and Chick planned a day that delights at every turn. The joy of the day radiates through the imagery captured by McSween Photography, you’ll fall in love with every darling detail inside the full gallery.

From McSween Photography… Caroline and Evan met during their freshman year at UNC-Chapel Hill and began dating the next year as Sophomores. Caroline texted him “Hey, I’m single. Want to get dinner?” It’s okay … You can laugh. Looking back now that pretty much sums up their entire relationship. In August of 2019, Evan lost his twin brother Michael in a skateboarding accident. Every day after that was a struggle waking up and dealing with the loss. Then just two months later in October of 2019 Caroline’s brother, Drew passed away. Evan was with Caroline as she spoke in front of 400+ people at her brother’s funeral. In those two months, they knew they were meant to be there for each other. Truly knowing what it means to love each other through the ups and downs. During their senior year of college, Caroline got a golden retriever named Holden. She started a bucket list for Holden at UNC-Chapel Hill and blogged about him, it went viral. He now has quite the following on Instagram.

Holden has been through so much with Caroline and Evan he was the dog of honor at their wedding, along with his sister Sophie. Evan proposed on a trip to Colorado in September 2020, they took sporadically between Caroline ending a job and starting a new job. On a hiking trip, Evan popped the question and of course, Caroline said, “yes!” The stars aligned for them to take the perfect trip and for the perfect proposal, much like Caroline and Evan’s relationship, perfect for each other. The inspiration for their wedding was the gorgeous North Carolina Mountains, pops of colorful summer blooms, and an amazing day with their friends and family. Caroline wore a gorgeous Eva Lendel gown with a plunging neckline and all her bridesmaids in the same shade of Show Me Your Mumu pink, in different styles.

Spring Vine did an amazing job with the perfect shades of summer florals. Caroline and Evan honored their pups by including them in their wedding ceremony, but also with an appearance on their wedding stationery, and their very own signature cocktails at the reception. Holden the Golden was also featured getting a little mischievous on the back of the cake. Evan and Caroline also honored their late brothers by including a charm of each of their photos on Evan’s boutonniere and Caroline’s Bouquet. The love these two emanated on their day was an incredible honor to witness and be able to capture.

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This Couples’ Southern Wedding Was Inspired By The Colors Of Spring And Whimsical Wallpaper

This wonderful wedding design was inspired by the colors of springtime in Charlotte and a whimsical wallpaper design the bride fell in love with. The Bloom Room brought our couple’s Big Day vision to life with lush white blooms and a reception ceiling dripping with live greenery. Every moment was lovingly captured in a way that only Demi Mabry Photography can, see every detail from this southern charmer in the full gallery.

From the couple… Austen and I started dating in college seven years ago while I was a sophomore at the University of South Carolina and he a junior at Appalachian State University. We met through a mutual friend that he had gone to high school with and who was one of my good girlfriends in my sorority. She set us up for the last sorority function of the year and the rest is history! We continued to date and do long distance for roughly three years of our relationship and then finally both settled down in Charlotte, NC, my hometown after I graduated. We eventually made the move up to Raleigh, NC, where he is from, a month before Covid hit, and quickly settled into the quarantine life in our new home.

In December of 2020 Austen popped the question… and let me tell you I had no clue it was coming! Right after Thanksgiving, Austen began asking if I would like to go up to the mountains for a little getaway weekend with just us and our dog, Henry, one weekend in December. Knowing that we were going on a big trip to Colorado for the holidays, I was hesitant to add on one more trip the weekend before we left. I was also convinced he was going to pop the question on this family trip. It took some convincing, but eventually, I said yes and we booked our Airbnb. That Saturday we took off bright and earlier for a very, very cold hike. I knew I should’ve been suspicious that Austen wanted to get out before the crowds, but I honestly didn’t think twice about it at the time. It was a long, straight, uphill hike, and there were many moments that I almost made him stop and turn around, but thank goodness I didn’t. We finally made it to a lookout spot to sit down and relax. Once we settled down, before I knew it, Austen was next to me, pulling a small box from his bag and asking me to be his wife. I was in pure shock! Not only because he did not seem nervous the entire time, but because I jokingly told him never to propose while I was in hiking boots. When we were in college, he told me that he wanted to ask me to be his girlfriend on one of our hikes but go too nervous and couldn’t do it. He always knew that he wanted to ask me to marry him in that same way, and it could not have been more perfect. Not but five minutes after Austen asked me to marry him, my parents and their dog popped out of the woods for the best surprise ever. We celebrated with lots of happy tears, champagne, and the small weekend getaway became one of the best weekends of my life!

I always knew that I wanted to get married in my hometown, Charlotte, North Carolina, so selecting our venues was an easy process. We were able to have the reception at Quail Hollow Club and the rehearsal dinner at The Duke Mansion, two venues that have been a part of my life growing up. The ceremony location holds sentimental value to me as it is the same church where my parents were married in 30 years ago. Having a picture of the two of them, walking back up with the same aisle, hand in hand, will forever be so special for all of us. When Austen and I got engaged, we were in the middle of Covid and we knew we could no logistically have the wedding reception that we wanted in 2021, so we looked straight into March of 2022. We wanted our wedding to be a celebration and a gift for all of our friends and family to be together and have a weekend filled with love and a wonderful time. The overall look and feel of our wedding was clean, classic, and sophisticated. The inspiration for the color scheme came from the colors that we see in Charlotte at the beginning of early spring. Hues of whites, shades of greens within the trees, and pale neutrals were incorporated throughout the whole weekend. With this inspiration, our wedding planner, Katrina Hutchins Events, had the perfect idea to customize our bar front with a Schumacher wallpaper that incorporated all of these beautiful colors. We were able to match many of these colors into items such as our invitations, bridesmaid dresses, and flowers to name just a few.

In addition to the overall design of the wedding, we wanted to include personal touches that were meaningful to Austen and I. We included our dog Henry by having a watercolor painting of him placed on our cocktail napkins and drink menu. We also wanted the food to represent my family’s love for southern fare. The majority of Austen’s family are from the west coast and up north, so it was fun to have them experience a taste of the south. Shrimp and grits pulled pork sliders, and a late-night chicken and waffle bar were some of the main hits. One of the best personal touches was my dad surprising us, wearing his family Scottish kilt attire, greeting us at the end of our sparkler exit. Everyone loved it! We then hopped into my grandfather’s silver vintage 1967 Mercedes convertible and my dad drove us away. It was the perfect ending to the best weekend of our lives!

From Demi Mabry Photography… Ginnie and Austen were truly a dream couple – all things gracious, kind, and fun! Katrina of Katrina Hutchins Events always creates true masterpieces for her clients’ wedding designs and this one was no different. With a design plan inspired by the colors of spring in Charlotte and a Schumacher WALLPAPER the bride loved, this wedding designed by Katrina Hutchins Events channeled the colors and patterns of a traditional southern soiree.

The wallpaper, featured on the front of Ginnie and Austen’s custom bar made by Dan Lanning, served as inspiration for their invitations also, with a coordinating pattern designed by Olive Paper being reflected in their envelope liners. Beige lounge furniture with lush, green pillows and overhanging chandeliers with natural greenery woven throughout was the perfect ode to the original wallpaper design.

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A Modern Interpretation of Indian Bridal Fashion

In a beautiful homage to Indian culture, Radian Photography and Joy Proctor teamed up with an incredible team of vendors to create endless inspiration. With whimsical floral designs in full bloom by Bows & Arrows Flowers and a modern vintage aesthetic, we can’t help but fall in love with all the artful imagery. You can take a closer look at every dreamy detail in the full gallery.

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From Joy Proctor Design… In celebration of her Indian heritage, photographer Radhika McDiarmid of Radian Photography worked with Joy Proctor and an incredible team to design and shoot this fashion-forward editorial to highlight Indian bridal fashion.

The looks featured a whimsical, floral-focused aesthetic that more and more Indian brides are embracing as they opt for weddings that are less large and formal.

Shot against vintage Indian fabric and a hand-painted backdrop designed with her grandparents’ farm in mind, lush floral installations, and a modern henna design added to the dreamy aesthetic.

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A North Carolina Wedding Set Against Majestic Mountains

Does it get more majestic than a mountain wedding? We don’t think so! After a private wedding, just the two of them, Keiko and Steve were excited to finally celebrate their love with friends and family surrounded by the beauty of nature. Two Sweet Sparrows planned a day well worth the wait, and exquisite blooms in bright hues by Springvine Design were the exclamation point on an incredible day. Each artful image by Kim Branagan Photography is more beautiful than the last, visit the full gallery to see them all.

From Kim Branagan Photography… c were full of emotions (joy being the most prominent) as they prepared to say “I do” again. When Covid changed their plans, again and again, they decided to tie the knot just the two of them in 2020 but the celebration they were really excited for was this wedding day to share with their friends and family on a stunning mountainside in Asheville, NC.

The couple was most excited for the florals and the natural beauty surrounding them on their wedding day and loved that the Chateau at The Ridge was a nod to the groom’s European descent and the setting in general was a nod to their shared love of the outdoors and the beauty of nature.

Keiko and Steve just exuded happiness, gratitude, and joy from the moment we started the day and they had eyes for no one else! Steve not only built their wedding altar but also created a custom “Price is Right” wheel that he was VERY excited about and kicked off what was to be a high-energy reception, dancing well into the night!

Enchanted Blush And White Summer Wedding At Biltmore Estate

Excuse us while we swoon, this wedding is nothing short of a fairytale. Held at Biltmore Estate, an 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain oasis, Tara and Nick filled their special day with summer colors that perfectly complimented the gorgeous grounds. Two Sweet Sparrows planned a day that pulls out all the stops, including a butterfly release at the wedding ceremony! Floral design by Dream Events By Daria couldn’t be lovelier, and Barrie Anne Photography captured all the magical moments perfectly. Visit the full gallery for a closer look at all the lovely.

From Barrie Anne Photography… Tara & Nick’s wedding day could not have been more perfect, after postponing and changing wedding locations, finally came their enchanting fairytale day. The couple came from the east coast with their families to be wed at the gorgeous mansion of Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC.

Tara and her family have significance to the Biltmore Estate growing up visiting for equestrian competitions.Lush summer colors complimented the stunning garden grounds, up on the hill of Diana, overlooking the estate as the two said their vows and released butterflies to solidify their marriage.

Complete with a champagne tower at sunset, family and friends danced the night away with Tara & Nick underneath a beautiful, romantic, timeless, candle-lit tent overflowing with florals and love.

A British-Inspired Wedding In The North Carolina Mountains 22 Years In The Making!

After 22 loving years together, this couple decided to tie the knot and their wedding day was nothing short of epic! The team at John Lupton Events paid special mind to the couple’s combined interests and weaved it into the theme of the day beautifully. Both their love of travel to the UK and their prized Rolls Royce made appearances in fun and unique ways. This long-lasting love was beautifully captured in the elegant imagery by Demi Mabry Photography. Visit the full gallery for a closer look at all the special touches.

From Demi Mabry Photography… Joe and Chris met on a project at work in Charlotte, NC. After 22 years together, Chris turned to Joe and said, “it’s time.” These two finally stood before their friends and family in a beautiful, fall wedding in Blowing Rock, NC!

Their morning wedding honors their parents, as each of them was wed in the morning. The British traditions – their custom morning suits and tea – honors Chris’ heritage. They also spend frequent time in the UK as Rolls Royce owners. These two LOVE their vintage Rolls Royce and enjoyed incorporating it into their wedding day!

The menu and wine selections all represent sentimental favorites with meaning from Chris and Joe’s life together. The team at John Lupton Events did an amazing job bringing this mountain wedding together for Joe and Chris and it was a joy to photograph!

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Stylish And Sophisticated Wedding Inspiration In North Carolina

Be prepared to have your breath taken away, this North Carolina editorial is one for the books. Filled with three sensational bridal looks, and a bevy of romantic multicolored blooms by Petal and Vine, this inspiration is perfect for the modern bride. Heather Benge Events carefully curated all of the magical moments, and Tanya B McSween artfully captured them all in her beautiful imagery. You’ll fall in love with all the elegance in the full gallery.

From Tanya B McSween… The combo of this gorgeous sunlight-drenched, open-air venue and the perfect fall color palette is giving us all the warm fuzzies for this editorial. The Providence Cotton Mill was the perfect place to bring wedding magic to life.

We paired mauve with shades of greens and burgundy, among other accent colors, along with wood and mixed metal elements to create an epic inspirational wedding shoot. Beautiful colors and sophisticated styling do not disappoint.

Exposed brick and large open arches, beautiful models, and stunning details – what more could you want? This inspiration shoot is sure to fill every heart’s desire.

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McSween Photography

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Ethereal Romance In The Mountains Of North Carolina

With soft lush florals and a mountain-range view, it doesn’t get more romantic than this North Carolina wedding! We’ve fallen head over heels for this dreamy aesthetic planned by Silk & Sabal and with just one look it’s easy to see why. Carefully curated details fill the day, from the couple’s custom monogram to a fabulous floral installation by Petal And Fern turning the reception into a real-life fairytale. Kristen Weaver perfectly captures the tender moments in her elegant imagery. Be prepared to fall in love in the full gallery.

From Kristen Weaver… Elizabeth and Ed were married in a luxury mountain-top wedding in beautiful Asheville, North Carolina! Their custom monogram included their dog, Cash, their horse, and lots of Floridian details- it was even printed on the server’s aprons and tea-towels!

The ceremony ended with a huge confetti recessional. Guests were transported to the venue where they were greeted with refreshing Sangria cocktails.

Their floral details were soft and lush, and the Chateau was filled with white linens, stone plates and candles. 150 guests traveled from Miami, Cuba, and Puerto Rico to celebrate with the couple with a Hora Loca including Samba dancers, drummers, and coffee cart.

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Nashville Singer Songwriters Wed in an Intimate Destination Elopement Amidst the Clouds

Singer songwriters Jamie and Jimmy had a wedding as beautiful as the sweetest melody. They decided to tie the knot in North Carolina where Godfreys designed the most elegant of days amongst the clouds. Beautiful blooms by Kassie Kay Floral Design in shades of pink, blush, and cream filled the wedding with romance. You can feel the love in the artful imagery by A Thomas Photography. Don’t miss the full gallery, it’s sure to be like music to your ears.

From A Thomas Photography… Jamie and Jimmy are singer-songwriters from Nashville, Tennessee, so when they began thinking of their wedding day, music was always going to be at the core. Jamie’s father is a world-class jazz musician, and her sister is also an incredibly talented singer, and they performed an acoustic version of “I Know How the River Feels”.

A few weeks before her wedding day, Jamie had a dream that her beloved, late Grandpa Sonny came to visit her. He told her “I will meet you on the mountaintop, and I will bring the sun”. It was a sweet dream, but when her wedding day dawned drizzling and covered in clouds with an 80% chance of rain, she didn’t think much more of it’s meaning. However, as Jamie and Jimmy began to say their vows to one another, the sun broke through the clouds and the fog lifted to showcase the magnificent mountain views beyond the ceremony space. Everyone gasped and Jamie and her mom both exclaimed, “he’s here”!

Like so many other couples throughout this strange year, the guest list for Jamie and Jimmy’s wedding became only immediate family. Jimmy’s family lives in Canada, so they were unable to attend due to strict COVID procedures. True to pandemic wedding form, they Zoomed in for the ceremony. The design of their intimate elopement was equal parts rock and roll and romantic modernism.

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Inquisited

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A Romantic Asheville Wedding Set Against The Mountains

Say hello to 360-degree views of gorgeous mountain ranges at this North Carolina wedding. The Planning Asheville designed a day that leaves no detail unturned, from the swoon-worthy outdoor ceremony to the reception space dripping with elegance. The florals by Floressence Flowers rival the beauty of the mountain range and fill the day with unrivaled romance. You’ll get lost in the artful imagery Almond Leaf Studios. Make sure to visit the full gallery for every beautiful moment.

From the bride… Jack and I met at Duke University Hospital across a trauma bay in the emergency department. It was Jack’s first year as an orthopaedic surgery resident and I was the nurse in charge of that bay. There was an instant connection but (of course!) we had to be professionals and take care of the patient between us. Two weeks went by and I ran into Jack on his last week of his emergency department rotation, talk about fate! Jack asked me out on the spot.

On the day of our wedding, it was truly magical seeing all the pieces come together. I loved all the rich lush greenery in Tulum when Jack and I visited there. We had the best trip and I wanted to incorporate some of that energy into our wedding. The florals were the highlight of the decor and it brought me great joy to hear guests say it looked like a jungle.

Overall, my advice is classic. Enjoy it all. What matters is that you are getting married and you are surrounded by friends and family that love you. It makes me emotional thinking back to how all of our favorite people gathered to celebrate our love. The day may have been a blur, but I will never forget how I felt.

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Modern Marie Antoinette Inspired Spring Wedding

Romance is in full effect at this magical garden party of a wedding! Here at SMP, we love a good mismatched bridal party, so naturally, this group of gals totally caught our eye! Stunning floral designs by FLORA embodied the warm spirits of Amber and Will, and we’re getting butterflies from the beauty of it all. It’s safe to say, this is the definition of a spring wedding done right. Lindley Battle Photography captured the extraordinary emotions and lovely details in the full gallery that you sure don’t want to miss!

From Lindley Battle Photography… Set at the historic Graylyn Estate in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Amber and Will threw a stunning spring wedding featuring lush floral design with modern garden party elegance. Every detail of the day was impeccably planned, from the creative floral dresses of Amber’s bridesmaids to the elegant simplicity of their ceremony overlooking the lake. When asked to describe their wedding in three words, Amber and Will said that the day was a dreamy, magical garden party. With the luxury venue being located five minutes from Amber’s childhood home, she spent so much time during her younger years walking around the grounds, which made having her wedding there so much more special and meaningful.

For both Amber and Will, family and friends are incredibly important, and getting to celebrate this special day with their loved ones from all over was everything they could have asked for. When asked about their wedding planning experience, Amber said that she really loved how Will wanted to have a say in the parts of the wedding that were important to him – the band, the food, the first dance, and the marriage counseling. They would make date nights out of figuring out the first dance and making a song list for the band. Amber shared that her biggest advice would be to have fun planning it all. Not to get too caught up in all of the little details. If the bride isn’t stressed – nobody is stressed. There will be mishaps that happen on your day but if you stay positive nobody will even notice. The band is key, the photographer is key, the venue is key. Everything else will fall into place, but be certain to get vendors that you trust!

When asked about her favorite moments of the day, here’s what Amber had to say: “I have always said since college I would rather stay at the pregame with my girls than go to the party. Getting ready with all of my best friends and sisters was so special to me. Lots of champagne and giggles. My dog is my best friend and she came for the last hour or so for pictures and to hang and that made my entire day. Seeing my dad for the first time was very emotional for me. I love him he is my best friend. I don’t know how to describe the feeling but I couldn’t believe he was about to give me away. I wanted more time! Seeing Will for the first time was the best feeling in the entire world. Knowing we were about to officially get married was indescribable. I have never been so happy. It was such a special moment and I am so glad we chose to do a first look. I will never forget the way he looked at me the first time he saw me. Still gives me butterflies and a smile from ear to ear. I for sure thought since I had cried so many tears at the rehearsal dinner I would be good to go to say my vows. Did not happen. I could barely get through them without choking up and crying. I love how Will was looking at me and said, “You can do this”. It was just another reminder of how much he loves me and how I know he will be my biggest cheerleader throughout our life. I felt so safe with him there in front of all of our friends and family and I love that we got to start our married life that way.”

A Sentimental & Sweet Al Fresco Micro Wedding at Fearrington Village

After two date changes due to the pandemic, a switch in season and plenty design elements that required re-thinking… today’s gorgeous couple was finally able to tie the knot in a dreamy outdoor ceremony at Fearrington Village surrounded by their closest family and friends. Kast Event Co. supported the pair in every way, shape and form as COVID through all the curveballs their way throughout the planning process. They originally hoped for an indoor Spring wedding in a beautiful barn, but as it turns out… their outdoor celebration under endless string lights on a crisp Fall night was so much more than they could have ever imagined. Check out the full gallery of details to get majorly inspired, all taken by Nikki Santerre!

From Nikki Santerre… Cabell and Dave’s biggest priority, despite plan pivots and changes, was that they wanted their guests to have a joy-filled experience at their wedding at Fearrington Village, whether they could have twenty guests or just two. They prioritized their family and best friends and dined al fresco while music from a jazz band fluttered in through the bay doors. It was the perfect October night.

From Cheryl Ann, Kast Events... Cabell and Dave handled every curveball that came their way due to Covid with kindness, understanding and grace. After two reschedules they decided move forward with their big day as ultimately all they wanted to be was married! The guest list was adjusted, and we made a few design tweaks here and there; like adding some fall hues to florals and tabletop. By the time their wedding day arrived, I truly felt like I have gained some new friends. Their day could not have been more perfect; from the weather down the florals, food and just all over vibe of the day. It was a joy to work with this family and I wish them only the best!

From the bride… Our planning experience (besides having to postpone multiple times) was so much fun. I am really into details, which is why I loved working with Cheryl-Anne with Kast Events because her style and mine are very similar and she loves details too! When it came to a totally different plan of action for the wedding (moving it all outdoors and not going with a lot of our original design plans) Cheryl-Anne made the experience flawless! As much as I wish we could have had our beautiful spring wedding outside and reception to follow in the barn with a big band, the intimate outdoor wedding we had was just as special if not more. We even got lucky as our fall wedding felt like a spring day, it was a beautiful and warm day! Meaningful moments : Our rings are all passed down in the family, which is pretty special! My dad passed away 5 years ago and my mom gave me her diamond that my dad gave her for Dave to then reset and give to me. My wedding band is Dave’s grandmothers that we reset and Dave’s ring is his grandfathers.

Asheville Wedding Planner’s Amazing Bridal Shower

Editor’s Note: For starters, what’s not to LOVE about a bridal shower with donkeys adorned in the most gorgeous floral accessories? That’s right. And that’s just the beginning. This bridal shower is seriously what dreams are made of.

Can we start with the donkeys? Because how adorable are donkeys with flowers in their satchels? Too cute! Right?! Okay, let me back up a bit. We are so excited to be a part of this incredible bridal shower for one of our favorite Asheville event planners, Caroline! Caroline works with Mingle Events! It’s her turn to tie the knot. So her Mingle gal pals, Candace, and Ashley planned the most beautiful celebration for our dear Caroline!

Along with a dream team of vendors, Candace and Ashley created the most beautiful bridal brunch we have ever been to. Greeted by Poppy and Bean as you enter the new barn at The Venue at Mills River. Grab a mimosa from the mimosa cart or a bloody mary and get your gab on with all your gal pals. Graze through the massive charcuterie display in the middle of the barn.

Then make your way to a cozy and gorgeously styled seating area around the barn. And don’t forget to pop by the dessert table for a cake pop or heart cookie. We had an amazing time celebrating Caroline!

After opening gifts, Caroline posed with Poppy and Bean on the quaint tree swing. Then spent time chatting with all her friends and family. It was a lovely afternoon.

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McSween Photography

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Inquisited

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A Black-Tie Micro Wedding at The Groom’s Family Farm

“It’s about the marriage, not the wedding.” Truer words have never been spoken. When today’s bride needed to let go of her original wedding plans due to COVID, repeating this statement to herself over and over allowed her to realign with the main goal of their wedding weekend – to say “I do” to her forever person! With help from her planner, J.Elliott Style, the beautiful couple tied the knot in a gorgeous black-tie affair in the mountains at the groom’s family farm in Cashiers, NC. To see all the timeless beauty from their day, check out the full gallery – all taken by Elizabeth Lanier Photography!

From the Bride, Victoria… Russell proposed on a gorgeous Friday afternoon in March on the family property where he grew up. We frequented his farm on weekend retreats from busy city life, which made it possible for him to pull off the surprise. A very normal day and car ride down to the farm left me with no inclination of what would later ensue. With the help of family, he had transformed the space with gorgeous blooms, petals, and candles. The answer was an easy yes! Russell had invited our families and many close friends to a surprise engagement party and dinner afterward to celebrate. It was one of the best nights!

We immediately knew we wanted to host our wedding in the mountains of Cashiers, North Carolina, as this is another very special place to the two of us. We’ve spent many weekends in these mountains and loved the beauty of the rolling hills. We drew inspiration from the natural beauty of the surrounding area. When dreaming about my wedding day, I saw lots of natural tones and classic, comfortable elegance all while being surrounded by our closest friends and family in a place that means so much. Wedding planning always seemed daunting to me, so keeping the day as peaceful and laid back as possible was a huge priority, even down to the details. My mother and I made several trips up to Cashiers where we ironed out the day’s details and dreamed about how gorgeous this May evening would be.

Our original plans were to wed May 9, 2020, and I never anticipated anything changing this, certainly not a global pandemic. Towards the middle of March, even though our venue had not closed down yet, I accepted that our May 9th wedding would not be able to proceed as planned. Due to the uncertainty, many believed that the day could still go on, but Russell and I both agreed that we needed to go ahead and pivot our plans. Looking back, making the decision as early as we did was the best call we could have made. Most in similar situations chose to postpone their celebrations to later in the year, or the year following. For us, this was never an option — we wanted to be married and did not want to wait another day. So our search for the second venue began. We chose Russell’s family home, nestled by the lake was the most beautiful little island with an oak tree looking onto the water. Surrounded by our immediate family only, we said our vows. It felt just right! We hosted an intimate dinner party on the summer patio. We incorporated family heirlooms to create a meaningful table setting and pay tribute to those that couldn’t be there with us. We used my great grandmother’s Tiffany & Co China and my Grandmother’s Belgium lace tablecloth that has been passed down. My something blue was a beautiful sapphire ring that was passed down to me by my grandmother and namesake.

Throughout our engagement season, I maintained the statement that “it’s about the marriage, not the wedding”. Letting go of our original wedding plans was tough, but repeating this to myself help me manage the disappointment and realign with the main goal of our wedding weekend: to marry Russell. There were of course aspects of our wedding day that we both had looked so forward to that just could not happen, such as no wedding guests other than our very immediate families. This was not ideal, but we both knew sacrifices would have to be made and leaned on each other. We are forever grateful for our families, specifically both of our mothers, who pulled out all of the stops in a major time crunch to make this day so special for us and host such a meaningful event at home. The day ended up being so perfect just as it was, that I never looked back or thought about our original plans again. I would not change a thing!

By far my favorite memory of the day was the first look and finally getting to see Russell. The time between having to cancel plans for our original wedding to May 9th seemed like a blur. The day really felt so real when I was able to finally see him and the rest felt like a dream. Our wedding photographs were a huge priority to me and the most important investment of our wedding. Choosing Elizabeth Lanier was my first wedding decision and by far my best. Her eye for detail and love for natural light set her apart. Every image was skillfully and expertly executed with the true emotions and beauty of the day on the main display. Russell and I both felt so comfortable and at ease with Sarah Elizabeth behind the lens, which absolutely shows in the images. I could go on and on about how happy we were with Sarah and her photographs, but I will let the images speak for themselves. I would choose Elizabeth Lanier over and over again.

A Whimsical Garden Wedding With a Favor Idea to Leave Your Guests Feeling Pampered

Stumped on a wedding favor idea that will stand out and really wow your guests? Then you need to see the “DIY Bath Scrub Bar” from today’s garden wedding planned by Mingle Events! I mean, is that not the cutest favor idea ever?! We’re obsessed. Dive right into all the inspiration this whimsical affair has to offer, complete with romantic floral installations from Springvine Design, all captured at the full gallery by Madeline Trent Photography!

From Madeline Trent Photography… This summer mountain wedding at Hawksdene Estate in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, North Carolina is elegant and whimsical. After re-scheduling their original April wedding to August, Ashley and Shane were over the moon to finally tie the knot amongst their closest friends and family in a weekend celebration that was heartfelt and stylish.

Whitney Randall with Springvine Designs used florals in a soft, pastel color palette to create a garden themed ceremony and reception. The growing aisle which was lined with arrangements culminating in a stunning arbor underneath a tree-lined driveway had wedding guests feeling as if they were in a secret garden.

A sunset al fresco dinner on long farm tables covered in romantic floral installations, created an intimate and heartfelt experience. The bride made and painted her own wedding cake and the beautiful favor table- a “DIY Bath Scrub Bar” that had all the ingredients to leave guests feeling pampered long after a night of dancing and celebration.

Ashley and Shane are the sweetest couple, and I am so honored that I was able to be a part of their beautiful day.

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Madeline Trent

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Modern Barn Wedding Inspiration with Pops of Coral Charm Peonies

This gorgeous shoot was inspired by the herringbone walls of the gorgeous North Carolina barn venue – Board and Batten! Eliana Nunes Floral & Event Design brought their modern yet whimsical vision to life complete with lush coral charm peonies, velvet tablecloths and a blooming floral arbor that’s about to go viral all over Pinterest. Lucky for us, Hillary Meulleck was there to capture every inspiring detail! Head on over to the full gallery and prepare to fall in loveee.

Oh, and another thing we love about this shoot? The gorgeous couple. We honestly don’t receive enough submissions featuring POC, despite there being so many beautiful weddings out there that are produced by amazingly talented vendor teams. We’d love to receive more, so if you have a wedding or styled shoot that you’d like us to consider for publication on SMP – just click here to submit!

From Eliana Nunes Floral & Event Design… This Modern Barn Wedding was inspired by the venue itself! Board and Batten highlights herringbone walls, a huge double-sided stone fireplace, and a stunning bridal suite that would make any bride feel gorgeous!

For this inspiration, Eliana of Eliana Nunes Floral & Event Design wanted to use the pantone color of year, along with shades of blue. She designed the ceremony with draping greenery hanging from the chandeliers, a whimsical floral arch, and lines of white wooden chairs to give the space a clean, yet whimsical look. At the reception, coral peonies, coral parrot tulips and rich greens highlighted the stone fireplace, with golden candle holders adding the final touch. Velvet tablecloths from Nuage Designs helped bring the most gorgeous shades of blue, from sky blue to rich turquoise. Signature drinks were displayed on a charming antique piece from Eventful NC.

Gorgeous velvet escort cards and hand-painted invitation suite with a custom crest, dinner menus, and cocktail signage were designed and calligraphed by Priya of Piachella Calligraphy. The cake was a simple two tiered cake with a marbled exterior, swirls of gold and just the right touch of florals. Hair and Makeup was provided by Tease and Blush to create a flawless and glowy look for our bride. The pink lip and rosy cheeks were the perfect compliment to the subtle pink and floral accented wedding gown that was designed by TWOO and provided by Bellissima Bridal Boutique.

From Windsor Jewelers, our bride wore the emerald cut halo engagement ring and wedding band while our groom wore a hammered silver wedding band. Hillary Muelleck Photography used Fuji 400 film to best capture the rich and vibrant color palette of the pink florals and blue velvets. Shooting on film provides a richness to each photo while also keeping the elements soft and intimate. Every detail, from the floral accents on the wedding gown to the herringbone architecture of the venue walls, was intentionally highlighted when designing and styling this vibrant barn wedding. We hope this inspires all you barn wedding lovers who want a modern and whimsical vibe!

This Bride Wore a Ruffled, Smoke Grey, Fiercely Feminine Wedding Dress and We’re Obsessed!

The minute we laid eyes on this intimate wedding at Half Mile Farm, we were convinced there’s no way a wedding this perfect could be real – it had to be a styled shoot! Nope. It’s real, and it’s unbelievably gorgeous. Where do we even begin? The knock-out smoke grey wedding dress? The 16-person guest list? The custom table runners and vintage china? There’s just too much to love. Host and Haven brought the couple’s intimate wedding dreams to life, while Vero Events wow’d us with their romantic floral creations. Live vicariously through the full gallery – captured by Sarah Ingram!

From Host and Haven… Hannah and Clark met in college in Charleston, South Carolina. The bride hails from the Midwest and the groom from Boston. Once they started a planning process, they knew they wanted something destination since everyone would have to travel regardless. While they loved their little beach town for everyday life, they wanted something a little more intimate for the wedding. The guest list was kept to immediate family only and the goal was for the weekend to feel inclusive and approachable.

They chose Half Mile Farm, which is a tranquil country Inn tucked back on private property in the village of Cashiers, North Carolina. The historic farmhouse nestles perfectly on a rolling hill overlooking Apple Lake. Immediately upon arrival, your pace slows down, and that’s exactly what Clark and Hannah wanted for their big day. Hannah chose The Kahlo dress by Vagabond. The smoke grey color is made through a mixture of blush, blue, and ivory tulle. It includes an extendable train for extra drama. The structured corset front creates modern lines with the layers of texture in the tulle for delicacy. The designer describes the dress as “fiercely feminine” and we couldn’t agree more. Since the weather was a bit on the chiller side, the bride also wore a cashmere blue sweater at moments.

Her statement earrings were made by Hyla Dewitt and clutch found at a local boutique. The ceremony was set facing a beautiful historic farmhouse on a hill. Guests sat on wooden benches and were offered pashminas in the chillier temperatures. The aisle was adorned with a seagrass runner and fresh ivory rose petals. The grooms’ brother acted as the officiant and her long-term friend as a bridesmaid. Cocktails & canapes were enjoyed on the back patio of the main house. Guest nibbled on Pumpkin and Chestnut, Forest Mushroom, Sunchoke- Parsley Root Soup Shooters, Truffle Potato Croquettes with Sour Cream and Sturgeon Caviar, and Lime and Juniper Roasted Venison Skewers with Baby Shiitake and Tupelo Honey.

Dinner was served in the inside ballroom for the sixteen guests. The base linens were a velvet duck egg tone and covered with horizontal custom table runners made from Schumacher. The plate ware was a gold-rimmed charger and the dinner plate was their inherited wedding china in Juliska Country Estate. The setting was made complete with silverware, clear cut glassware, chocolate linen napkins, and a gorgeous name tag and menu designed by Emily Baird Design. A nod to traditional prints and modern lettering. The floral and textured taper candles completed the look with a mix of local foliage and blooms. Floral varieties included black eye anemones, mustard and nude roses, hellebore, queen Anne’s lace, lilac, bunny tails, delphinium, copper beech, and blossom quince branches.

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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A Romantic Wedding Complete With 345 Guests AND A Hanging Cake Installation You Just HAVE To See!

It is no easy task to plan, and create almost every detail of a 345 person wedding (including all florals and stationery,) but Rebecca Rose Events not only nailed it but did it all with some of the most beautiful details! From elegant, French-inspired lounge furniture to crafting a hanging cake installation for the gorgeous Cakes by Chloe wedding cake, the intricate, beautiful details were at every turn! Henry Photography captured all of those details and all of the romance as the happy couple danced the night away with their guests! Take a look below and be sure to check out the full gallery here!

From Rebecca Rose Events…Do you remember the 21st night of September? We always will!

When asked what they hoped to most remember thinking back on their wedding 20 years from now, Conley and David said, “We want to remember the love, warmth, and happiness that was shared privately between us, but also these moments with our friends and family.” We’re confident that they’ll always remember those moments. It was an evening to remember, for sure!

The black-tie wedding celebration began with a beautiful traditional ceremony at the Centenary United Methodist Church, followed by a clear top tented reception at a nearby private farm.

Guests arrived at the reception to find a large outdoor patio with lounge furniture, which led into a tent for cocktail hour. There everyone was served tray-passed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, around the gorgeous “Bubbly Bar”, where the champagne was flowing! To signal the end of cocktail hour, the band started to play, and the curtains pulled back to reveal a hidden passageway into a larger clear top reception tent for dinner and dancing. On their way into the tent, guests feasted their eyes on a hanging cake installation, designed by our team in collaboration with pastry chef, Chloe Lee of Cakes by Chloe.

The reception tent was adorned with loosely hung smilax greenery, crystal chandeliers, and modern french style furniture. The color palette was intentionally neutral, featuring ivory, white, and rose gold, so that Conley’s favorite pops of green could really sing. We lined many portions of the tent walls with boxwood, and the stage was surrounded by fresh flowers. As the sunset, Conley, David, and their 345 guests danced the night away, before leaving in the glow of a sparkling grand exit.

And yes, the band kicked off the party with a killer rendition of Earth, Wind, and Fire’s “September”.